A dream come true, says Lyons

Brad Lyons has described his move to Rovers as "a dream come true", and says he can't wait to get started.

The midfielder completed his switch from Northern Irish side Coleraine on Tuesday, arriving on an initial loan, with a view to the deal being made permanent in January.

Speaking about the move, Lyons was over the moon to have put pen-to-paper, having impressed on trial in the summer.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be here," he said. "I watched Rovers when I was younger; it’s a great club with a great history and I can’t wait to get started.

“I knew the club were watching me towards the end of last season but didn’t think anything was coming of it. I got a call about a trial in the summer and then the clubs started talking from there.

“Rovers are such a family club, I was so well looked after in the summer, everything was there for me and everyone was so nice.

"The players and staff were great with me, and the facilities are fantastic. I can’t wait to get my head down now and start training with the lads.

“There was a little bit of shock when I told my family and friends because I’ll be moving away from home, but they’re all delighted for me, they know I’ve worked hard. This is a dream come true, but the hard work starts now."

At just 21 years of age, Lyons already has plenty of experience behind him, and hopes it will serve him well during his time in East Lancashire.

The youngster explained his playing style, and also had a message for the Rovers fans.

“I’m a central midfielder, a bit of an all-rounder really. I don’t mind defending and like getting stuck in, but I also like attacking and scoring goals.

"I like to think of myself as a box-to-box player. I’ve scored two goals in my last three games and that’s something I want to get into my game more and more.

“I’m only 21 but I’ve played over 120 games, and about 80 to 100 of those were starts. I’ve got experience behind me of playing senior football and hopefully that will stand me in good stead.

"I’ve played four games in the Europa League against tough opposition, so I’ve got the experience and want to kick on now.

“To the fans, I’d say that I’m going to give everything for the badge. This club has given me an opportunity, so I’ll try to repay Rovers as much as I can.”